Third Annual K-9 Challenge set for May 18

DOWNTOWN AKRON — Teams of K-9 law enforcement personnel will take over Lock 3 Park May 18, demonstrating their methods for attack.

Akron’s Third Annual K-9 Challenge, sponsored by the Akron Police Department (APD), will include teams of dogs and handlers from Summit and surrounding counties.

The Olympic-style competitions are open to the public and will begin at 10 a.m. and continue until completed — about 2 p.m. — at Lock 3 Park, 200 S. Main St. Admission is free and guests can park for free in the State Street Parking Deck adjacent to Lock 3.

“The purpose of the K-9 Challenge is to let the public see the benefits of using dogs in specialized law enforcement tasks,” said Sgt. Dale Dorn, the APD’s K-9 commander. “We all train together, and usually only the Police Olympics have dog team events. Our handlers like the competition, and this is a way for us to have some fun at the same time.”

Dogs will be judged on obedience, agility and criminal apprehension, which follow criteria used in state certification tests. In addition to trophies being awarded in various categories, there will be one “Top Dog” award given to the K-9 team that scores the most points.

A $5 pancake breakfast from 9 to 11:30 a.m. will take place, with proceeds going to the APD’s K-9 unit. Food and beverages (during the lunch hour) and pet-related products also will be available for sale.

In order to not distract the K-9s, Lock 3 and the Akron Police Department ask that attendees do not bring pets to the event.

For more information about the event, contact Maria Nagel, marketing director at Lock 3, at maria_nagel1@yahoo.com or 330-441-2493.